CRLAMBERTJR

I'm getting ready to replace my oil pan gasket and the rear main seal. I thought that while I was down there, maybe do a little pre-emptive long-term maintenance and go ahead and replace the oil pump, screen and pick up tube. Nothing high volume. Thinking I'd like to get a Mopar, but its a lot more than a Melling. I was under there yesterday wiping off crud and oil, and saw that the oil pan gasket is sticking out about 3/8 to near 1/2" on the passenger side where the pan meets the timing chain cover? I believe that its getting oil on my serpentine belt and causing my charging problem ? While I'm down under, was considering checking the torque specs on the caps??? Hoping the front seal isn't leaking too. I already have the distributor gasket and the oil filter adapter gaskets too. The front seal will be my weakest point. Give me your opinions, thanks !!!

freegdr

If your in there change it. Also use felpro blue gasket only...

CRLAMBERTJR

I have a new Fel-Pro, haven't opened up to see ehat color it is? I guess the Melling pump will be dependable for the long haul ?

freegdr

Been around for years for a reason. Should be good. Upon restart pull coil wire and crank engine to prime pump.

Suprmn

If you are going in that far I would replace the rod bearings as well. Buddy of mine pulled his and they were worn through the copper. I think that is why these engines throw rods from time to time. cheap insurance.

cruiser54

Hey guys, I'd leave it alone. These aren't Chevies, Fords, or Mopars...........

CRLAMBERTJR

No, I don't have any rattles, knocks or engine noises at all. I've done a recent oil change and no metal at all. My oil pressure is excellent and steady. The way it runs now, and the power it had when I kicked it down hard, there's nothing wrong with the bearings. It accelerated smooth as silk and is impressively quick. My oil pressure never drops below 30. I was just thinking that a fresh oil pump, would help with longevity. If it ever got to that point I'd just pull it. I've rebuilt the bottom end of an inline 4 cylinder on a VW w/o pulling the motor. I wouldn't do it again.

cruiser54

The pump in there is likely better quality than the replacement new part. +

CRLAMBERTJR

Yeah, I figured it was good part, last 18yrs so far ! I just wasn't sure how long they last. The Mopar was about $147 on ebay, comes with everything like a kit. The Melling was less than $60, but the tube and screen weren't included. I'm planning on driving this baby till the cows come home! Maybe just clean the screen good and let it ride?

cruiser54

Yup

5-Speed

Agreeing with Cruiser on this one. When I rebuilt my engine at 218k miles, I left the old pump in there. The internals of the pump looked good. Still makes great oil psi on the new engine.

CRLAMBERTJR

Thanks again gurus !!! Saved me some more money !!!

JK253

I put the Melling in a few years ago when I did the RMS and it's been fine; pressure is solid and higher than the stock pump. Getting the pickup tube into the pump is a bit of a pain and has to be bent slightly at the sump end to clear the pan, but otherwise installation was simple.